If the reaction is mild, insect stings should be treated by first removing the stinger. This is necessary as the stinger continues to pump venom from its sack until it is empty or removed. The stinger should be removed by using a firm edge such a knife or credit card that is placed against your skin next to the embedded stinger. Apply constant firm pressure and scrape across the skin surface to remove the stinger. This is preferred to using tweezers or fingers, which can accidentally squeeze more venom into the patient. The site should be cleaned with a disinfectant and an ice or cold pack applied to reduce pain and swelling. Topical steroid cream or calamine lotion may be applied several times a day until symptoms subside. If necessary, oral antihistamines can also be taken.
If an insect sting causes a severe reaction or anaphylaxis, urgent medical attention should be sought. If a patient is known to have an allergy to insect stings they may carry with them an allergy kit containing adrenaline (epinephrine). This can be used in such circumstances and may prove to be life saving. A medic alert tag is a wise precaution for those at risk from anaphylaxis.
The main treatment aim of insect bites is to prevent itching. Topical and oral antihistamines, calamine lotion, and topical local anaesthetic agents may provide relief. As generally only brief treatment is required moderate potency topical steroids may also be used to provide a longer effect. Bites from insects carrying disease usually require specific antimicrobial therapy to treat the disease.
